MQM chief calls for 'martial law' to rid country of corrupt politicians

Karachi, Aug 23(ANI): The Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) chief Altaf Hussain said that his party would support steps similar to martial law against "corrupt politicians" to weed out the menace of corruption.

In his telephonic address from London to the MQM's General Workers' Convention in Azizabad, Hussain urged "patriotic generals to initiate martial law-like steps against feudal politicians and former generals who disgraced the army institution during the Soviet-Afghan war".

"The MQM is ready to take any risk for steps taken against political stalwarts for eradicating corruption and benefiting the country. To nip the major evils of society, it is sometimes acceptable to support the minor ones," The Daily Times quoted Hussain, as saying.

He further demanded the initiation of cases of mass murder against 'influentials and landlords' saying that they were blocking the country's development.

"These influentials and landlords have always created hurdles for the poor and middle classes, restraining them from entering politics to serve their country," Hussain said.

However, almost every ruling and opposition parties have opposed the call, saying that a civilian set-up must be supported over a military rule.

"Such statements are not welcome. We are following the policy of reconciliation and would continue to pursue it, " said Taj Haider, a Pakistan People's Party (PPP) leader.

Pakistan Muslim League (Q) leader Ghaus Bakhsh Mahar said that though corruption was rampant in the current civilian set up, yet he would not support an army intervention.

Meanwhile, Awami National Party (ANP) leader Amin Khattak said that his party would not support martial law, and pointed out that past experience showed that the country had suffered greatly under martial laws. (ANI)